TN authorities searching for MO man suspected of child rape

Wendell Lee Washam

FRANKLIN, TN (WSMV) -

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is searching for a Missouri man who allegedly failed to appear at his trial earlier this month on child rape charges.

Wendell Lee Washam, 82, with the last known address of 1100 Pleasant Hill, Platte City, MO, is wanted in Williamson County, TN, on two counts of rape of a child, aggravated sexual battery, solicitation of sexual exploitation of a minor and electronic solicitation of a minor.

Washam was due in court on Dec. 3 and failed to appear, so the TBI has now named him among the state's Top 10 Most Wanted list.

Authorities believe Washam has committed new offenses against children since the previous charges were filed.

He is described as 5'7" and approximately 130 pounds, with gray hair and blue eyes.

Police said Washam could now be in Missouri or Kansas.

Anyone with information on Washam's whereabouts is asked to call 1-800-TBI-FIND (1-800-824-3463), and information leading to an arrest could result in a $1,000 reward.